CHERRY HILL, N.J. (CBS) – Cherry Hill Council members have passed an ordinance Monday night that will ban smoking in any Township-owned area.

The law makes it illegal to smoke on any public property, including Town Hall, the Cherry Hill Public Library, the Department of Public Works, on Township-owned trails and at any of Cherry Hill’s 52 public parks and playgrounds.

“This is about protecting our children, giving our residents the right to enjoy our outdoor facilities and public spaces without putting their health at risk and keeping our landscape clean,” said Cherry Hill Mayor Chuck Chan.

The change takes effect in mid-December, but full enforcement will begin in January, according to officials. At some point in between, there will be a 30-day public educational period.

Violators can face up to a $150 fine for a first offense; up to $300 for a second offense; and as much as $500 for subsequent offenses.